WHAT AN S-300 IS AND WHY IT IS IMPORTANT

Mr. Obama is scheduled to meet today (May 24) with Lebanese President Saad Hariri.  The US is stating “grave concerns” over Hezbollah’s buildup of arms in Southern Lebanon.  It is likely to be a topic during today’s discussion.  The following headline appeared yesterday:

Hizbullah arms of ‘grave concern’

http://www.jpost.com/International/Article.aspx?ID=176129

The Israelis are sure to doubt any “grave concerns” because of  recent U.S. decisions.  The change of position on the S-300 is one of several Obama Administration policy changes that have caused the people of Israel to question American support.

An S-300 is a Russian made anti-aircraft battery.  It is capable of shooting down sophisticated multi-million dollar warplanes.

The Obama Administration has “made concessions,” agreeing not to ban the sale of Russian anti-aircraft batteries to Tehran.

The New York Times, a source that I can’t remember using previously, is reporting that:

“The concessions are the latest moves in President Obama’s effort to establish a fresh partnership with Russia after years of mutual suspicion.”

It goes on to state:

“The latest moves generated a fresh barrage of criticism from lawmakers and national security experts who said the administration was giving away too much and getting too little in return.”

Here’s the article: http://www.nytimes.com/2010/05/22/world/22sanctions.html

There is no question that the unease of those living in Israel will intensify after another awful decision by the Obama Administration.  The following quote is no surprise:

“Military sources point out to debkafile, that Washington’s uneven and inconsistent approach to Iran and Syria make naught of the protestations made by President Obama and other US officials of their unshakeable commitment to Israel’s security.”

This decision by the Obama Administration has created more instability in a situation that is already way out of control.

Chris Reimers

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